elytrum
The elytrum, plural elytra, refers to the hardened forewings of beetles and earwigs. In beetles, these modified wings serve as protective coverings for the delicate hindwings, which are used for flight. When a beetle is at rest, the elytra meet in a straight line down the dorsal midline of its abdomen. During flight, the elytra are typically held out to the sides, allowing the hindwings to unfurl and engage in aerial locomotion.
The structure of the elytra can vary significantly between beetle species, reflecting adaptations to different environments
In earwigs, the elytra are much shorter and broader than those of beetles, covering only the base